When students think about choosing a university, academics are often the first factor that comes to mind. But ask any undergraduate what shapes their daily life on campus, and the answer goes beyond grades: the friendships built in residence halls, the food served in dining halls, the safety of late-night walks, and the overall sense of community.
The Princeton Review’s Best Quality of Life ranking for 2025 captures exactly this dimension. Drawing from extensive student surveys, the rating reflects how satisfied students are with their lives outside the classroom — scoring campuses on happiness, safety, dorm comfort, food, community engagement, and even how easy it is to deal with administrators.
What the ranking includes
According to the Princeton Review, the quality of life score is measured on a scale of 60–99, based on:
Together, these factors create a picture of where students feel most at home, not just as learners, but as individuals.
The top 10 list
The list reflects a diverse mix of institutions, from intimate liberal arts colleges to large research universities. Here are the top 10 US colleges offering the best quality of life for students, according to The Princeton Review (2025):
Why the rankings matter
The best college experience is shaped as much by life outside the classroom as it is by academic rigor. A supportive environment, strong community, and everyday comforts can influence not just mental health but also long-term success.
For students and families navigating college choices, these campuses remind us that education is not only about degrees, it’s about the quality of the journey.
Note: The Princeton Review is not associated with Princeton University.
The Princeton Review’s Best Quality of Life ranking for 2025 captures exactly this dimension. Drawing from extensive student surveys, the rating reflects how satisfied students are with their lives outside the classroom — scoring campuses on happiness, safety, dorm comfort, food, community engagement, and even how easy it is to deal with administrators.
What the ranking includes
According to the Princeton Review, the quality of life score is measured on a scale of 60–99, based on:
- Students’ assessment of overall happiness
- Campus beauty, safety, and location
- Dorm comfort and dining quality
- Ease of mobility across campus and administrative support
- Friendliness and diversity of student interactions
- The university's connection with its local community
Together, these factors create a picture of where students feel most at home, not just as learners, but as individuals.
The top 10 list
The list reflects a diverse mix of institutions, from intimate liberal arts colleges to large research universities. Here are the top 10 US colleges offering the best quality of life for students, according to The Princeton Review (2025):
Why the rankings matter
The best college experience is shaped as much by life outside the classroom as it is by academic rigor. A supportive environment, strong community, and everyday comforts can influence not just mental health but also long-term success.
For students and families navigating college choices, these campuses remind us that education is not only about degrees, it’s about the quality of the journey.
Note: The Princeton Review is not associated with Princeton University.
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